University of Leicester

What you'll study

This integrated master's programme builds from core biochemical principles to advanced molecular and applied topics. In early years you study foundational subjects such as cellular biology, molecular genetics, organic chemistry relevant to biomolecules and laboratory practical techniques. In later years teaching advances to specialised areas including enzymology and metabolism, structural biology and protein chemistry, cell signalling and regulation, metabolic disease and biochemical methods for analysing biomolecules.

Typical module themes include:

• Molecular Biology and Genetics – DNA, RNA, gene expression and regulation.
• Enzymology and Metabolism – enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways and control.
• Protein Structure and Function – folding, stability, structural techniques and protein engineering concepts.
• Analytical and Practical Biochemistry – chromatography, electrophoresis, spectroscopic methods, enzyme assays.
• Advanced Techniques – proteomics, mass spectrometry, bioinformatics and molecular modelling.
• Research Project – an extended laboratory research project undertaken under academic supervision, producing a substantial dissertation and experimental data.

Teaching combines lectures, small-group tutorials, laboratory practicals and research supervision. Assessment methods include practical reports, unseen exams, coursework, presentations and the final research dissertation. The programme is research-led, with opportunities to work alongside active research groups on your project.

Entry requirements

The MBiolSci is an integrated master’s route normally entered from secondary school through UCAS; applicants are expected to have a strong science background. Typical successful applicants will have substantial prior study in biology and chemistry (or equivalent), and may also have mathematics. The University considers a range of qualifications from UK A-levels, Scottish Highers, BTECs and international qualifications; mature applicants and those with relevant vocational experience are also welcome.

Applicants who already hold a degree in a closely related bioscience may be eligible to apply for advanced entry into later years or for standalone postgraduate research training; for such routes, a good honours degree in biochemistry, molecular biology or a related subject is normally expected. All applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements if English is not their first language.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme leave with strong practical laboratory skills, data-handling and experimental design experience, and a deep understanding of biochemical processes. These attributes prepare you for a wide range of careers, including:

• Research and development roles in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and life-science companies.
• Clinical laboratory and diagnostic science (often following additional professional training or accreditation).
• Further academic study such as PhD research or taught postgraduate masters courses.
• Quality control, regulatory affairs and analytical roles in industrial settings.
• Science communication, patent support and technical sales roles where specialist scientific knowledge is required.
• Teaching science in schools or colleges (with appropriate teacher training).

Many graduates progress to postgraduate research, industrial training schemes or professional roles that build on the laboratory and transferable skills developed during the MBiolSci.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers research-active teaching staff and a strong emphasis on laboratory training and independent research. Students benefit from hands-on practical classes, close supervision for research projects and the opportunity to join active research groups.

Facilities supporting biochemistry students include dedicated teaching laboratories, computing resources for bioinformatics and access to core research services for molecular analysis and imaging. The University also provides careers and employability support, helping students secure laboratory placements, internships and progression to postgraduate study. Leicester’s collaborative links with regional industry and research institutions help create routes into professional roles after graduation.